The Mother City’s tourism and hospitality sector is anticipating a progressive increase in inbound travel, following the UK’s decision to remove South Africa from its red list – and more so with flights to Cape Town expected over the next two months.

“The relaxation of travel restrictions from major inbound travel routes has been long-awaited and our hotels are ready to welcome our international tourists back with open arms, although we do believe this will be a slow return, building gradually over the next 18 months,” said Robert Hodson, COO of Legacy Hotels & Resorts.

“Vaccination rates in South Africa, coupled with stringent health and safety measures in our hotels, will inspire confidence in our country as a secure destination. We, at Legacy Hotels & Resorts will be doing our part to make sure our guests feel safe, and are safe, at all times.”

Hodson said the easing of restrictions would see The Commodore, in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, reopening its doors on November 17.

Since the UK lifted its restrictions, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have announced flights between London and Cape Town – a move welcomed by the City’s Mayoral Committee Member of Economic Opportunities and Asset Management, James Vos. 

“The Mother City has long been a favourite destination for British travellers. In 2019, readers of Britain’s Telegraph newspaper voted Cape Town their favourite city in the world for a seventh consecutive year. Last month, Travel + Leisure magazine’s global audience rated ours the best city in Africa and the Middle East and the 25th best in the world.”

Vos said he would be making contact with Britain’s High Commissioner and Consul General to share the local government’s plans for bringing back international travellers.

“Our Destination Marketing Organisation, Cape Town Tourism, is ready to hit the ground running with a marketing campaign that will appear in international media, online, and in prime locations, including London. We will also partner with top airlines to share the campaign on their flights.”

Vos added: “Our points of entry are equally ready to welcome passengers. Cape Town International Airport now offers a new electronic checking system making it easier to process passengers.”